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A FUN-LOVING CITY WITH A VIBRANT HISTORY

Kōchi is a city with a well-earned reputation for having a good time. Named after the castle that sits in the heart of the city, Kōchi delights visitors with its sightseeing, unique regional cuisine, and lively nightlife.

Begin your visit with a trip to Kōchi Castle, one of only 12 original castles still standing in Japan. Stroll the grounds and see the bronze statue of Yamanouchi Kazutouo, the largest equestrian statue in Japan. Then, make your way to the Obiyamachi shopping arcade, which is close to the Harimaya-bashi—a replica of a bridge featured in a well-known Japanese love song. Elsewhere, history buffs should make their way to the Sakamoto Ryōma museum to learn the story of Kōchi’s beloved, favorite son.

If all this shopping and sightseeing works up your appetite, be sure to try Sawachi cuisine—a style of dish native to the region—including Kōchi’s signature dish, katsuo no tataki (seared bonito). Wash it down with a shōchū with the locals, who are well known for their joie de vivre! Or, for a drink that’s out of this world, try Tosa Space Sake, a specialty beverage prepared with yeast that was taken into space aboard a rocket in 2005.

Kōchi, Japan Highlights

Kōchi-Jō

Explore the grounds of Kōchi-Jō, one of Japan’s oldest castles. From the castle tower (Tenshukaku) built in the Edo period, you’ll be treated to marvelous panoramic views of the city, while the castle grounds showcase lush flora that changes throughout the season.

Katsurahama Beach

Kōchi’s most famous beach, this beautiful destination is known as a great spot to watch the moon rise high in the night sky. It’s also home to the Katsurahama Aquarium, where you can catch a glimpse of a reclusive red-eyed Japanese lates, as well as schools of tropical fish, penguins, and more.

Harimaya-bashi

Immortalized in a famous Kōchi song about the dangers of forbidden love, the Harimaya-bashi is a small bridge located in the heart of the city. Snap your photo on the bridge with someone special and take in the monument dedicated to the song’s star-crossed lovers.